[entwisi]

Samsung are superb IMHO(and that of everyone I know who has one). Sony, Panasonic, Pioneer, LG ad JVC equally.

Consider NOW how many inputs you need and are likely to need, some only have 2 HDMI sockets, I would recommend at least 3 for futuure proofing.

also check out the contrast levels. Plasma is better than LCD but the quality makes of LCD are not that far behind now ( cheap LCDs tend to be ~1200:1, samsungs etc are usually 8000:1). Screen burn is also not an issue now.

Some TVs are particularly rubbish at sound, none are brilliant so consider if you are going to wire up to a proper amp/speakers. I can heartily recommend teh Onkyo SR605 with Kef iQ speakers!

Above all, when you do buy one spend a good hour or so setting it up properly. They tend to come with Brightness and contrast set very high to make a vivid picture.

There are a couple of online retailers I have used 247electrical and Laskys. Both also offer discount through quidco as well.

Re teh 1080 vs 720 argument, remember that Sky broadcast in 720 and as I understand have no plans to go 1080. Films are 1080 but you obviously need a suitable player to take advantage of it. Games are obviously 1080. TBH I reckon it will be years before it all settles by which time you might be buying teh next one.